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Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn (1767-1820), Soldier: son of George III; father of Queen Victoria

Sitter associated with 17 portraitsFourth son of George III and father of Queen Victoria. In 1789, he was made colonel of the 7th Royal Fusiliers but abused his position, returning to England from the Continent without leave. His father sent him to Gibraltar where, disgraced, he served as an ordinary officer. In 1802, he was promoted to Governor of Gibraltar to restore discipline but his harsh methods sparked off a mutiny and he was recalled to England. A womaniser, Edward had an illegitimate daughter with one of his many mistresses. In 1818, however, he married Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld (1786-1861). The huge debts he left the Royal family at his death were later paid off using Queen Victoria's royal income.